5 Delicious Anelli Pasta Recipes to Try Now
Anelli pasta, also known as "ring pasta," is a versatile and fun-shaped pasta that offers endless possibilities in the kitchen. Whether you're a seasoned chef or an amateur cook, Anelli pasta can elevate your culinary creations with its unique shape and texture. In this blog post, we'll explore five delicious recipes that incorporate Anelli pasta, showcasing its ability to hold onto rich sauces and complement various flavors. From comforting casseroles to light and refreshing salads, there's something here for everyone. Let's dive into the world of Anelli pasta with these tantalizing recipes.
Cheesy Anelli Bake
Who doesn’t love a good pasta bake? This recipe turns Anelli pasta into a cheesy, satisfying comfort food perfect for any occasion.
- 250g Anelli pasta
- 500g ground beef
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes
- 200ml heavy cream
- 1 cup grated mozzarella
- 1⁄2 cup grated Parmesan
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F).
- In a large pan, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pan, sauté onions and garlic until translucent. Add crushed tomatoes, cream, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
- Cook Anelli pasta until al dente, drain, and mix with the meat sauce.
- Transfer to a baking dish, top with cheeses, and bake until bubbly and golden.
🧀 Note: For a vegetarian version, substitute beef with roasted vegetables or mushrooms.
Lemon Parsley Anelli Salad
Ideal for summer gatherings, this light and zesty Anelli salad combines fresh flavors with the fun texture of Anelli pasta.
- 250g Anelli pasta
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1⁄4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 1 cup chopped parsley
- 1⁄2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1⁄4 cup toasted pine nuts
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
- Cook Anelli pasta according to package instructions, then rinse under cold water to cool.
- In a bowl, mix lemon zest, juice, olive oil, and garlic to make the dressing.
- Add cooked pasta, parsley, feta, and pine nuts. Toss gently to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper, and serve chilled or at room temperature.
🌿 Note: Add grilled shrimp or chicken for a protein-packed salad.
Anelli with Squash and Sage
Combining the earthy flavors of butternut squash with the aromatic touch of sage, this dish is a testament to the comforting, rich textures that Anelli pasta can embrace.
- 250g Anelli pasta
- 1 medium butternut squash, diced
- 1⁄4 cup olive oil
- 8-10 fresh sage leaves
- 1⁄2 cup heavy cream
- 1⁄2 cup grated Parmesan
- 1⁄4 tsp nutmeg
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
- Roast the squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper at 200°C (392°F) until tender.
- Cook Anelli pasta al dente, drain, and keep warm.
- In a pan, fry sage leaves until crispy, remove, and set aside. In the same pan, warm the cream with nutmeg.
- Combine pasta, squash, and cream sauce in the pan. Stir in Parmesan, adjust seasoning, and serve topped with sage leaves.
🎃 Note: For a vegan option, use coconut milk instead of heavy cream and nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan.
Mediterranean Anelli with Tuna
This quick and easy dish bursts with Mediterranean flavors, making it a perfect meal for busy evenings.
- 250g Anelli pasta
- 1 can (185g) tuna in olive oil, drained
- 1⁄2 cup black olives, pitted
- 1⁄2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp capers
- 1⁄2 cup white wine
- 1⁄2 cup chopped basil
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Lemon zest and juice from 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
- Cook Anelli pasta until al dente, drain.
- In a pan, heat olive oil, sauté garlic, then add tomatoes, capers, olives, and tuna. Cook briefly.
- Deglaze with white wine, reduce, then add basil, lemon zest, and juice.
- Combine with cooked pasta, season, and serve immediately.
🐟 Note: If you prefer a creamier sauce, add a splash of cream at the end for extra richness.
Anelli with Broccoli and Sausage
This hearty dish is all about combining the robust flavors of Italian sausage with the freshness of broccoli, all tangled with Anelli pasta.
- 250g Anelli pasta
- 2 Italian sausages, casings removed
- 1 small broccoli head, cut into florets
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1⁄4 cup Parmesan, grated
- 1⁄4 cup olive oil
- Chili flakes to taste
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
- Cook pasta until al dente, adding broccoli in the last few minutes.
- In a pan, cook sausage over medium heat, breaking it into pieces. Add garlic and chili flakes.
- Drain pasta and broccoli, reserving some pasta water, then combine with sausage in the pan. Toss with olive oil, adjust seasoning, and sprinkle with Parmesan.
🥦 Note: For a lighter version, use turkey or chicken sausage instead.
Incorporating Anelli pasta into your cooking repertoire can add a fun twist to your meals with its delightful ring shape. Whether you're in the mood for something cheesy, refreshing, hearty, or simple, Anelli pasta fits the bill. Each of these five recipes not only showcases the versatility of this pasta but also celebrates the joy of Italian cuisine with its vibrant flavors and comforting textures. By exploring these dishes, you'll not only indulge in culinary creativity but also learn how to blend ingredients in harmony with Anelli's unique form. Enjoy these recipes as a base to experiment with your own twists, or to create an entirely new dish inspired by the culinary adventure this pasta provides.
How can I make Anelli pasta more kid-friendly?
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You can make Anelli pasta more appealing to kids by using fun, colorful ingredients like diced carrots or peas. Using a mild sauce like a tomato-basil blend or a creamy cheese sauce can also make it more palatable for young eaters.
What are good meat alternatives for the pasta bake?
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For a meat-free version, you can substitute ground beef with options like lentils, mushrooms, or eggplant. These ingredients will still provide a hearty texture and flavor.
Can Anelli pasta be used in soups or broths?
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Absolutely, Anelli pasta holds up well in soups due to its shape, which helps it retain its form even after cooking. It’s great for adding to minestrone or chicken broth soups for a delightful bite.
Related Terms:
- anelli pasta recipes
- Anelletti al Forno
- Bucatini
- Penne
- Pasta panggang
- Sfincione